Jake McQueen will return from VFL duties with Essendon to line up for East Point against Melton in the Ballarat Football League grand final on Saturday.
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McQueen has not played with the Kangaroos since round 17 – missing their loss to Darley in the last home and away round, and three finals appearances
East Point coach Jake Bridges confirmed at a grand final media conference on Wednesday that McQueen would be a starter in the Roos’ bid for a first premiership.
McQueen has the potential to be the X-factor East Point is looking for to turn the tables on Melton at Mars Stadium after losing to the Bloods in the second semi-final.
While he is a proven goalkicker, McQueen’s game has developed where he now spends most of this time as a midfielder.
McQueen has played just eight games in the BFL this year owing to commitments with Essendon, but still managed to poll 10 votes in the Henderson Medal to finish just outside the top 10.
Bridges said McQueen would add another dynamic to the side.
“He’ll play his role. He knows what he’s got to do.”
Surprisingly, Bridges has not ruled out Jordan Payne playing despite the lively defender being hospitalised after suffering a jaw injury in Saturday's preliminary final.
Bridges said Payne was still a chance to play and expected him to train on Thursday night.
“He’ll have a run around and we’ll assess him like the other couple of guys putting their hands up for selection..
He said Payne was tough and selectors would see how he pulled up after the session.
Melton coach Aaron Tymms said ruckman and co-captain Ben Archard would definitely play despite still being troubled by an ankle injury sustained at a centre bounce contest in the second semi-final.
“He’ll play, but at what capacity it will be...he still hasn’t trained. He was still in a boot as of last night (Tuesday). Hopefully he will train tomorrow night (Thursday) and be right for Saturday.
“Arch 50 per cent is still worthy of playing. He’ll be out on the park.” Tymm said.
Melyon has not won a flag since 2005.